Dry January in aid of good cause

It was soft drinks only for Coun Jack Gebhard and Coun Veronica Jones on a visit to The Electrical Wizard in Morpeth to promote their fund-raising.

Published:12:49Tuesday 09 January 2018

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Two councillors in Northumberland have pledged to give up drinking alcohol for a month to raise funds for charity Child Bereavement UK.

Veronica Jones, cabinet member for adult health and well-being at Northumberland County Council, is being joined in the challenge by Morpeth Town councillor Jack Gebhard, who is also the Deputy Mayor of Morpeth.

Dry January is becoming a popular way for people to improve their health by abstaining from alcohol while raising money for a chosen good cause.

The pair have opted to raise money for Child Bereavement UK due to the personal connection between Coun Jones and the purpose of the charity, which offers support to children and families who have experienced the death of a loved one.

Coun Jones said: “January is the perfect time to make a healthy start to the year ahead.

“Not drinking alcohol will help you lose weight, as well as saving money this month, so we are encouraging Northumberland residents to take part in Dry January, and also consider their lifestyle choices and do something about their own health if necessary.”

Coun Gebhard added: “This is an important cause for Veronica, who lost her own daughter in 2013, leaving two young children behind.

“As a friend and colleague, I’m really glad to be able to support her throughout this challenge.”